100-year-old eatery evicted
Penang coffeeshop forced to relocate by building owner
A century-old Hainanese coffeeshop in Penang is relocating after its operator was evicted by the Singaporean owner of the shophouse building, Guang Ming Daily reported.
The Kong Thai Lai coffeeshop, which has been open for nearly 100 years, will move from Hutton Lane to Leith Street located 800m away.
The coffeeshop operator, Tan Jeng Seow, said the current premises would be handed back to its owner by the end of next month.
“On Sept 26, I will stop operating from Hutton Lane,” he said, adding that his new shop will open on Oct 1.
Tan’s grandfather originally set up the Kong Thai Lai coffee shop.
“I am reluctant to leave the place where I grew up, but it is also important for the business to continue.”
Tan said the rental for the new premises is RM2,700, five times more than the rate at his current spot.
> Four motorcyclists and two pillion riders were hurt after being hit by a car whose driver was high on drugs, Guang Ming Daily reported.
The 38-year-old driver tried to flee after the accident in Jalan Paya Terubong, Penang, on Sunday night.
He was caught by passers-by when his car broke down nearby and was handed over to the police.
George Town OCPD Asst Comm Mior Faridalathrash Wahid said the victims were sent to Penang Hospital for treatment.
He said the driver is believed to have been under the influence of drugs when the accident occurred.